Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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448. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if the possibility of using a material other than canvas or cloth for the rear seats of Garda vehicles has been examined; if her Department has considered installing a protective barrier between the front and rear seats to ensure the safety of members of An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11330/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Decisions in relation to the provision and fit out of Garda vehicles are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of her identified operational demands and the availability of resources.

In that context, I am informed by the Garda authorities that current specifications for Garda vehicles, in terms of materials and construction, are considered sufficient to meet An Garda Síochána's operational requirements. I am further informed that new developments in vehicle design and materials are kept under ongoing review.

The Deputy will be aware that I recently secured a further €10 million for investment in the Garda fleet of which €7 million was made available towards the end of last year, bringing total investment in the Garda fleet to €11 million in 2014. The remaining €3 million is being made available for the purchase and fit out of additional Garda vehicles during 2015

The vehicles will be allocated over the coming months, following fit out, in accordance with the Garda Commissioner's identified policing requirements.